I have a 5 yo Shepherd (Tarzan) who had his hips radiographed at 14 months of age. These radiographs, read by my regular vet and also a specialist, showed severed hip dysplasia, with slight arthritic changes, and evident muscle atrophy on the most affected side.

I'm trying to figure out when I should do surgery for him, or if management is fair for awhile longer. Money is the issue; and if surgery is imminent, it would have to be an FHO, not a THR.

To describe his status:
Over the past 3 years, his activity level hasn't changed much. He is well-tempered, happy, playful in short bursts. He enjoys short walks. He is on Yucca intensive w/ his food.

He used to jump up in my Jeep when he was excited to go somewhere, then after a brief outing, ask me to lift his hindquarters in for him. Now he almost always asks me to lift him, even if he is extremely motivated to go somewhere.

He is the 'boss dog' over my other male (both are neutered), obviously using the power of suggestion more than any physical dominance. Lately I notice the other male bumping into him and starting to question his own submissiveness. I think he is sensing Tarzan's increasing physical weakness and is challenging him. I have continued to support Tarzan's position in the home and my other male has backed off. But should I take this as a clue that Tarzan is ready/requiring surgery?

A new eval/xrays is several hundred dollars. Given his 14mo. xrays, I'm sure there has been some decline. I feel if im going to pay for the eval and new radiographs, I may as well be ready to follow through with surgery and rehab.

But if the dog is still happy and playful, can surgery be postponed? I've had a lot of people say 'don't do surgery until it is absolutely necessary' but the vet i spoke with says i should do it now.

thoughts?
thanks!